Self Care in uncertain times: 7 ways to remain unfazed when the world is chaotic

Travel plans cancelled. Employment uncertainties. Crazy news plaguing the media. Lockdown. New Normal. Wars and rumours of wars. We live in uncertain times.

Our lives were rudely interrupted by the pandamic in 2020. And now with trade wars and various other situations, we are often left with much anxiety. As everyone scrambles to readjust and realign, I’m wondering what can we do to steady our heart in these very uncertain times. How can we stay unfazed in the midst of ever increasing shaking and change?

Different people have offered various strategies, while others have speculated on the future economy or happenings world, some have suggested buying an Island in the middle of the pacific to start a new life. (Not a bad idea I think) The truth is no one can be sure of what is going to happen. But we can learn to response rightly with a steady heart. Here are 7 things I have compiled that may be helpful to steady our heart amidst all the uncertainties of life.

1. Allow yourself time to question and lament

We are not robots. So rather than supressing our emotions, disappointments and feelings (which may result in a volcano erupting), allow room for yourself to process the change around you. Journal your feelings down or talk to a trusted friends. Allow yourself room for honest questioning. Cry if you need to. We are not robots. We are humans. And its ok if you find the happenings of this year shocking like most of us do.

Reach out if you need to. With the world whirling around, its normal to feel stressed or depressed. Remember that the bravest people are those who are willing to face their weakness and vulnerabilities.

2. Find beauty in the seemingly ordinary

The four walls can be intimidating. The monotony of daily routine can eat into your heart. If you are used to exploring, dreaming and travelling, the everyday and mundane can seem hard to swallow. But trust me, there is beauty in the seemingly ordinary. Take time to chew your food, tasting every bite. Off and on look out the window and gaze at the clouds in the sky. Buy a plant and watch the growth. The ordinary is beautiful if you take time to savour it.

3. Develop a new skill

The world is changing. Jobs may not be what we think it’ll be like in the future. So, why not invest in yourself by learning a new skill? It might come in handy one day. Enroll on a free coding lesson on codeacademy. Learn to cook or bake. Find time to express your creativity via art. Its not too late to learn something new. And even if you feel you are an absolute novice, keep at it, who knows it may get you somewhere.

4. Evaluate your priorities

A steady heart comes from a focussed life, and the right priorities are essential for this. Prioritise your relationships. Who are the people that truly matter and are your support? Invest in these people. Priorities your time, what really matters to you, how can you give more attention to it.

5. Major on kindness and compassion

Let me tell you, kindness doesn’t just steady your heart, it expands it. When we learn to see the world with eyes of compassion, giving to the poor and rescuing the oppressed, we realise that life isn’t about us. We live in a wider community. So rather than closing your eyes to the oppression and poverty around you, why not do your part to clothe the naked and home the homeless. Write a letter to a persecuted Christian, talk to an elderly person at an old folk home, support some refugees, pay for someone’s groceries, call that long lost friend. Sure, it may not change the world, but it surely will change someone’s world.

6. Search out the deeper issues of life

Everyone needs a conviction. Everyone in their lifetime needs to not brush away the deeper questions of significance and existence or life and death. Such questions matter and need to be searched it out so why not now? I had my moment when I was 15, reading a book called purpose driven life and find meaning in Christ. I know of people who have explored different religions with a seeking heart and found the answer. Why not check out an Alpha Course at a nearby church ? You say you are not a religious person. But why not give yourself a chance to doubt your doubts and question your questions?

7. Relinquish control.

When all is said and done, learn to realise that you are not in control and surrender your life to your Creator. Realise that there is only so much we can do and that our lives are not ours to control. I personally have found that when I realise there is loving God who cared so much He died on the cross for my sin, I can be sure he will care for all my needs.

I hope this random list somewhat helped you. If you are seeking or searching, do leave a message or comment. The world is full of uncertainties but with God’s help, we can find certainty in what really matters.